Canon EOS C300

Who are they for?

The EOS C300 and C300 PL Digital Cinema Cameras set a new quality benchmark in a highly versatile system that will appeal to a wide spectrum of demanding professional filmmakers – from movie directors to documentary makers, major television channels to commercial makers, and more.

Sophisticated Canon camera technologies and an MPEG-2 MXF 4:2:2 codec deliver the top quality imaging performance required by filmmakers, broadcasters and post-production houses, whilst multi-camera connectivity provides straightforward integration into studio environments.

The C300 and C300 PL cameras offer a unique combination of exceptional imaging performance, compatibility with Canon’s new Cinema Lens series (which includes both EF mount and PL mount lenses), and compact form factor, allied with extensive customisation options to suit individual users.

Straightforward workflow integration is key during video production and is catered for thanks to additional 35Mbps and 25Mbps recording modes, industry-standard MXF file format and compatibility with all of the major NLE software packages.

Key features

• 8.3 Megapixel Super 35mm Canon CMOS sensor optimised for high-quality Full HD imaging
• Compatibility with Canon’s wide range of EF lenses (C300)
• Compatibility with industry-standard PL lens mount (C300 PL)
• Three built-in ND filters
• Compact, modular design. Lightweight 1669g (C300)/1869g (C300 PL) body only
• Broadcast-ready 50Mbps MPEG-2 MXF (4:2:2) recording to two CF cards
• High sensitivity: low noise images at up to ISO 20,000
• Extensive image customisation, including built-in Canon Log Gamma
• Robust, splash-resistant body with magnesium alloy components
• PAL, NTSC and 24.00p modes as standard. Slow/fast motion adjustable in 1fps steps
• WiFi remote control shooting capabilities
• Seamless workflow integration

8.3 Megapixel Super 35mm CMOS sensor; Full HD

The C300 and C300 PL feature a newly developed, large 8.3 Megapixel Super 35mm-equivalent CMOS sensor for video capture that provides three-channel RGB processing for Full HD. The sensor has a pixel size larger than that found on conventional professional camcorders enabling greater light-gathering capabilities for superb high-resolution images with enhanced sensitivity, low noise, reduced shutter artefacts and low power consumption, along with typical large sensor benefits such as beautifully shallow depth-of-field.

Widespread lens compatibility

The creative possibilities of the EOS C300 and C300 PL Digital Cinema Cameras are greatly enhanced by their compatibility with Canon’s wide range of EF mount lenses (C300) and industry-standard PL mount lenses (C300 PL).

Canon’s extensive EF lens range encompasses over 60 different lenses for a total focal length range that stretches from 8mm up to 800mm to open up an incredibly wide range of shooting possibilities. Filmmakers already shooting with industry-standard PL lenses can now take advantage of the widespread compatibility of the Cinema EOS System.

As the first two cameras in Canon’s Cinema EOS System the C300 and C300 PL have been introduced alongside a new Canon Cinema Lens range with seven lenses that deliver exceptional 4K, (4096x2160 pixels), optical performance and offer compatibility with Super 35mm-equivalent sensors.

A built-in ND filter allows for keeping the iris open for shallow depth-of-field and attractive bokeh. A four-layer filter system offers three densities – 2-stop, 4-stop and 6-stop – with ND0 being clear.

Compact, modular, lightweight design

The EOS C300 and C300 PL Digital Cinema Cameras have ultra-compact bodies that have a modular design for superb mobility and expandability with the C300 PL having a basic recording set up that weighs just 1869g (without lens). Removable grip, handle and multi-angle control panel components ensure maximum manoeuvrability, whilst the robust, splash-resistant body features magnesium alloy components for additional rigidity and toughness.

A 4.0-inch (10.1cm), 1.23 million-dot LCD panel rotates forward and back through 270 degrees with an optimal position for shoulder-mounted shooting. The panel can also be rotated for monitoring from one side of the camcorder and allows for easy checking of scene composition at low angles.

The cameras have adopted the 'My Menu' system from Canon’s EOS DSLR cameras to offer the ability to select and store up to 14 of your most frequently used menu items that, via one push of a button, can be quickly accessed whilst shooting.

Broadcast-ready 50Mbps MPEG-2 MXF recording to CF cards

The cameras can record broadcast-ready MPEG-2 MXF files at 50Mbps (4:2:2) to two CF memory cards with relay and simultaneous recording options available. Industry-standard outputs include HD-SDI, along with Timecode, Genlock and Synch terminals for multi-camera shoots.

High sensitivity, low noise

The C300 PL features enhanced sensitivity: low noise images can be captured at up to ISO 20,000, allowing for use in almost any shooting conditions.

Canon Log Gamma

Extensive image customisation includes built-in Canon Log Gamma, which delivers neutral image quality with wide dynamic range (800%) for maximum freedom in post-production. Users can adjust more than 90 image variables and store as Custom Picture profiles in-camera or on SD card, for easy setup of multiple cameras.

Canon Log Gamma is optimised to work in conjunction with Canon’s 50Mbps 4:2:2 codec, providing up to 12 stops of latitude.

24.00p mode and adjustable frame rates for movie production

PAL, NTSC, and 24.00p modes are included as standard, plus frame rates from 23.98p to 59.94i. The 24.00p mode matches the 24fps frame rate of of film cameras for high compatibility with common film production workflows. Standard frame rates can be adjusted in increments of 1fps from 1 to 60 frames a second, depending on the recording standard selected, enabling the same over- and under-cranking options found in traditional film cameras. Fast motion shooting is available at up to 60x normal speed and slow motion down to 1/2.5x.

WiFi remote control

Filmmakers can wirelessly monitor camera settings via a notebook, tablet or Smartphone using a simple browser-based user interface. With the optional WFT-E6 Wireless File Transmitter ND filters can be controlled, shot marks added and metadata uploaded remotely without a need to physically operate the camera.

Seamless workflow integration

The C300 and C300 PL integrate seamlessly with existing industry-standard workflows and are compatible with most widely-used professional NLE software packages.

MPEG-2 4:2:2 codec

The C300 and C300 PL utilise Canon’s MPEG-2, 4:2:2, 50Mbps codec, recording in MXF format. 4:2:2 colour sampling provides twice the vertical colour resolution of 4:2:0 enabling better gradation, finer detail, and smoother diagonals as well as helping to eliminate the threat of jagged edges, fringing and unwanted artefacts during chroma keying.

CMOS sensors

Canon develops and manufactures its own sensors and has incorporated a newly developed Super 35mm-equivalent 8.3 Megapixel (effective) CMOS sensor in both the EOS C300 and C300 PL. This sensor has a pixel size that is larger than that for conventional professional camcorders, enabling greater light-gathering capabilities for enhanced sensitivity and reduced noise. The sensor reads Full HD (1920x1080 pixels) video signals for each of the three RGB primary colours, decreasing the incidence of moiré while realising high resolution with 1,000 horizontal TV lines.

Supported by a heightened signal read-out speed, the CMOS sensor reduces rolling shutter skews, a phenomenon prevalent with CMOS sensors in which fast-moving subjects may appear diagonally distorted.

DIGIC DV III processor

The DIGIC DV III processor is the latest iteration in the DIGIC DV family. Greater processing power provides enhanced colour gradation, wide dynamic range and beautiful reproduction of skin tones, in addition to supporting features such as extensive image customisation.

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